Author: Lexi ChambersRead Time: 3 mins read
Category:
  • Events,
  • Events 2027
Date: 13/05/2025

What's to come...

If you've ever thought, “I could probably run 10 ultra marathons in 10 days,” first—seek help. Second—try doing it in a wheelchair. With your arms. Up the hills of England. Backwards. In the rain. (Okay, maybe not backwards. Yet.)

That’s exactly what I’m gearing up for: 10 days, 10 ultra marathons, 50km+ each day, wheeling myself from London to Sunderland. And no, there’s no flat route—at least not in my optimistic, deluded imagination. I learned that the hard way during my John O’Groats to Land’s End epic, which was as vertical as it was long. Think lead boots. Think fire in your triceps. Now throw in a backpack of stubbornness and a deep love for fundraising, and you’re somewhere near the vibe.

On the bright side, Guinness World Records is finally correcting my record! They had it backwards (literally), but after some gentle persuasion (read: passionate lecturing), they saw the light. Small victories taste sweet when paired with aching shoulders. Cat and I are visiting the HQ in June, which is a massive honour. I literally can't wait. A chance to see how it all works, and offer a few hints of how to spot a wheelchair with electric wheels! Yes, they do exist. No I would never use one! They're just not my bag, especially when I'm doing records and fundraising using my own steam, not electric!

Big news also on the horizon: USA 2027. Four months, coast to coast, more arm miles than a peloton at Le Tour De France. We've already started team meetings, and managed to interest some sponsors, and we’re proud to be supporting Team Forces, an incredible veterans charity, who are also championing the venture. I’m also scouting a U.S.-based military or veterans org to support—suggestions welcome!

Training is relentless, but vital. Two days off a week (never back-to-back), because apparently my body reacts to rest like a toddler to bedtime—grumpy, stiff, and full of complaints. For America, we’re planning just one day off at a time. Endurance is a mental game as much as a physical one, and breaks can break your rhythm if you’re not careful.

I’ve had the privilege of chatting with Ann Daniels, polar explorer and fellow record-breaker. Her insights have been invaluable. And while last year’s event didn’t exactly unfold according to plan (cue dramatic montage), I’m leaning into those lessons. People can surprise you—in good and not-so-good ways. But this year, the motto is simple: Positivity or pack it up.

If you’re joining the team, bring the good vibes. No drama, just determination. Ultra marathons in a wheelchair aren’t for the faint-hearted—or the moaners. And while I don’t always talk about the pain (spoiler: it’s constant), that doesn’t mean it’s not there. So positivity is the way forward, and my help to ease the pain of the past!

Women’s rugby continues to be my not-so-secret power source. The off-season is way too long, and I’m counting down to the Rugby World Cup like a kid before Christmas. Fitting, really, that childfund-rugby's motto is "powered by Rugby"—because I truly am.

So, here's to relentless miles, powered wheels, and ridiculously big goals. Stay tuned and stay positive!